Gonna be a pass for me. I'd be more likely to trade down a few spots than trade up. But I don't think either will be necessary.

I don't think moving KK is going to be on the FO's minds for a while, especially since he's showing improvement for being a 2C. Is he perfect? No, but it's definite improvement, and to what they see as the replacement to Staal when he retires.

Also personally think Staal would just sign a 1 or 2 year deal rather than 3. 3 mil would be the max he'd get, but he could get something like 1.5-2.

Why would the Canes do this? KK was just a half a PPG 2C whilst maintaining his elite defensive performances, and he is signed long term to a deal that is already looking good. I think the Canes would be willing to give up futures for Kuzy with retention, but KK has become a part of the core, and he won’t be moved.

Tbh I’d rather have a 1st and 3rd than KK. Not really sure what OP was thinking here + Backstrom is 100% coming back.

Kuzy @ 5m for 1st + 3rd seem correct?

Personally, I would rather not send a first for Kuzy, and I’m sure the Canes would also have that thought process. That being said, I think if the first round pick is conditional based on offensive production, the Canes likely take it. Where the 24 first downgraded to the Flyers 2nd if the conditions aren’t met. At that point, it’s a borderline first, but just outside, and whether or not the Caps get that pick would be riding on Kuzy.

I think the blues only trade up if Michkov is available tbh.